A stock represents equity ownership; a futures contract represents standardized price exposure with an expiration and multiplier. Futures often trade nearly around the clock and use performance bond margin.
| Ownership | Stocks: yes; futures: no |
|---|---|
| Expiration | Futures expire |
| Sizing | Shares vs. contracts |
How it works
Stock P&L is share count times price change. Futures P&L is contract count times point value times price change.
- Define the contract and expiration month
- Convert the price move into points and ticks
- Multiply by the contract's verified point or tick value
- Account for fees, liquidity, and risk limits
Worked example
Stocks and futures use different units. A two-contract position moving 10 ticks changes by 20 total contract-ticks. The dollar result equals those contract-ticks multiplied by the product's tick value.
Risk and common mistakes
Futures leverage and expiration require additional controls.
- Confusing margin with maximum possible loss
- Using the wrong micro or E-mini multiplier
- Ignoring expiration, maintenance breaks, or economic events
- Sizing from desired profit instead of predefined risk
Use the related calculator
Model the contract values and risk with your own inputs before planning a simulated trade.
Open calculator →Frequently asked questions
What is the most important point about futures vs. stocks?+
A stock represents equity ownership; a futures contract represents standardized price exposure with an expiration and multiplier. Futures often trade nearly around the clock and use performance bond margin.
Is this information personalized financial advice?+
No. ORIVECT Education provides general educational information. Contract selection, leverage, and risk decisions require your own judgment and current official documentation.
Where can I verify the current contract specification?+
Use the official exchange source linked from the relevant ORIVECT market reference page. Trading hours, margin, and holiday schedules can change.